Steve was a good friend and extremely talented architect.  I think of him often, especially when driving around town and seeing his work.  He created great places and touched many lives.  Myl ove to Cheri, Ryan and Katie.

I am so sad about the loss of this kind and thoughtful architect.  

Steve was part of the "Auburn invasion" of talent at Gresham and Smith...it was the early part of 1978.  Randy Parham and Steve had been hired by that Auburn champion Batey Gresham, and soon WE (the other youngsters, including David Meech, Joe Hodgson, Paul Plummer, Grizzly Don Graham, James Bearden, Everton,  Jim Clement, Jim Wachtel, Mac McCoy, Tom Bulla, Jimmy Larkin, and so many others... many of us from UT) knew of the NEW KIDS that had arrived.  Talented or what?  Later others would show up at the firm, including Gary Everton, Richard Fletcher, Norman Dietrich, Seab Tuck, and so many others.  What a wonderful place to work and learn from each other.  

Soon, Steve with Jim Wachtel would be in charge of the 3310 Office Building, working for entrepreneur David Emery on that big step for GSP.   Another promising youngster Dennis Findley, built a huge model of 3310 model;  he would then  go to Auburn to get his degree. For some humorous reason, David Emery was known to most of us as "Dave Bob,"  and consequently everyone involved with him would have that second name added... so Steve was known to most of us as "Steve Bob."  I  left town for a year, returning to the firm in the fall of 1981 to work with Steve in the newly formed studio headed by Mike Milo (an odd bird) and our group included Rick Rosson and Steve.  

Sherry was a teacher of English, and they lived in an apartment at the intersection of Highway 70 and Old Hickory in Bellevue.  I recall that Steve and I shared a love of science fiction, and one night he was reading something by Arthur C. Clarke when Sherri looked over, glanced at the text, and reminded Steve that it was NOT literature.   How true.  And I remember when Ryan was born....later finding out that he had inherited the skills of both of his parents and was at the super-prestigious Warton School in Philadelphia.  Whoa.  I know Steve and Sherry were super proud parents. 



I've known Sheri and Steve. They are amazing people. They believed in me when I didn't think too much of what I could do in my future. That feeling they gave me stuck with me even though I haven't seen them for a long time. I am so sorry to hear about Steve's passing. He lives with me in that feeling of believing in myself. May he rest in peace and may his memory be eternal. 

I worked with Steve on the Rutherford County Judicial Center Project for about 5 years.  It was a great experience that I enjoyed very much working with him. His leadership led to a successful Project. He was a talented professional and certainly passed to soon. I am very sadden to learn about his passing. I wish all the best to his family in this difficult time. 

Jerry Preston

Steve was a mentor, friend and inspiration.  He will be dearly missed.

I had the privilege of meeting Steve when I started at Gresham Smith in 2002. Our paths didn't cross often, but when they did, he was always so nice, respectful and truly one of the most genuine souls I've ever met. He had a way of making a person feel like they mattered.

I remember when we started providing Smart Phones at the office and helping him get his email setup. He may not have known the technology, but he did adapt very well - that's just how he was. If adversity came his way, he simply adapted. I remember him as being an inspirational leader, and he will truly be missed.

I pray you are able to find comfort and peace in the wonderful memories you have.

Sheri, Ryan, Katie and family
I just learned that my friend and one of my most distinguished mentors has passed away.
Steve was a quiet man, but he made a huge impact on me and was a blessing to me many times.
May God grant you peace during this time of strife.
May the pain you are currently experiencing quickly go away and the good memories remain with you throughout your life and the life of your children.
Nothing I can say will ease the pain...
If it is any consolation, please know that your husband/father/grandfather made an impact on many people during his life.
He was an architect - but he was also a teacher, a mentor, a shoulder to lean on in difficult times.  But most importantly - he was a good friend.
May your family continue to be blessed by his memories.

Ket West


Sheri and family,  
Lea Ann and I share our sympathy and condolences with you. We also celebrate the legacy that Steve left on all who knew him through his work. Steve and I shared many conversation about Auburn and Tennessee football during the 80's and 90's, as well as working on Healthcare projects together during our time at State Street, 3310,  and  downtown. Please know we are thinking of you and praying for your family. God bless you all.

David 
 

I knew Steve from living close to his grandparents growing up. He was 1 of my first crushes, 7th grade.  His grandparents were some of the kindest people I ever knew. I am praying for you all.

Steve was a light that will never stop shining through others. His grace, kindness, and loyalty will forever be remembered. 

Prayers for the family. Steve will be missed until we see him again.   Tom

Sheri, Ryan, Katie - Steve was an amazing architect, colleague and friend.  We shared so much across the years. He impacted so many lives with his quiet smile and quick wit.    I laughed as hard as ever with Steve and now I will mourn harder than ever for this incredible loss.   God bless you all. 
db

OBITUARY

Steven Page Johnson

April 6, 1955 – April 17, 2021

Woodlawn-Roesch-Patton Funeral Home & Woodlawn Memorial Park

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